The best traffic-free bike rides around North Plains

There are currently 4 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike routes around North Plains featured in this guide. These routes are specifically curated to offer a car-free or very low-traffic experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the scenic Tualatin Valley and Coast Range foothills.

The no-traffic gravel bike trails around North Plains, as featured in this guide, are generally considered difficult. They often include significant elevation gains and unpaved surfaces, making them suitable for experienced gravel riders looking for a challenging adventure. For example, the Gravel loop from North Plains covers nearly 70 km with over 1100 meters of climbing.

Yes, all the no-traffic gravel bike routes in this guide are designed as loops, bringing you back to your starting point. This includes routes like the Northwest Murphy Gravel Road – Sunset Ridge Nature Reserve loop from North Plains and the Banks-Vernonia State Trail loop from North Plains, offering convenient circular journeys through the region's beautiful landscapes.

You can expect diverse scenery ranging from rolling agricultural fields and lush farmland to the foothills of the Coast Range and Tualatin Mountains. Many routes traverse extensive networks of rural and gravel roads, offering picturesque views and a true sense of escape from urban traffic. The region is known for its 'audacious gravel roads' that wind through natural habitats.

While the routes themselves focus on the riding experience, the North Plains area is rich with natural attractions. You might consider visiting the Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve for exceptional wildlife viewing, or exploring Orenco Woods Nature Park. The Banks-Vernonia State Trail loop from North Plains, for instance, offers a chance to experience a popular trail that connects to natural areas.

North Plains benefits from a temperate climate, making it suitable for year-round outdoor activity. However, the mild, wet winters mean some gravel sections might be muddy. The warm, dry summers generally offer the most ideal conditions for gravel biking, providing firm surfaces and pleasant temperatures for longer rides.

Yes, several routes offer significant distances. For example, the Banks-Vernonia State Trail loop from North Plains is nearly 87 km long, providing a substantial ride through varied terrain. Another option is the Gravel loop from North Plains, which stretches almost 70 km.

The komoot community highly rates the experiences around North Plains, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Riders often praise the quiet, scenic nature of the routes and the opportunity to explore the region's extensive network of rural and gravel roads away from vehicle traffic.

Yes, some routes incorporate these well-known gravel sections. For instance, the Northwest Murphy Gravel Road – Sunset Ridge Nature Reserve loop from North Plains explicitly features Northwest Murphy Gravel Road, known for its low traffic and scenic appeal.

While specific parking details for each route are best checked on the individual tour pages, North Plains itself offers various public parking options. Many routes start and end near the town, making it convenient to find a place to leave your vehicle before heading out on your ride. Consider starting points within North Plains for easy access.

Beyond the specific routes in this guide, the North Plains area is renowned for its network of gravel roads. Notable mentions from local cyclists include Rocky Point Road, Northwest Pumpkin Ridge Road, Dixie Mountain Road, Northwest Old Pumpkin Ridge Road, Northwest Corey Road (known for short, steep climbs), Pederson Road to Jarrell, NW Keller Rd, and NW Murphy Rd. Many of these contribute to the 'no traffic' experience.